How Much Does a Laundry Service Cost in London?
Life in London moves fast. Between work, commuting, family commitments, and social activities, finding time to do laundry can feel like a challenge. That's why more Londoners are turning to professional laundry services for convenience and peace of mind.
One of the most common questions people ask is: How much does a laundry service cost in London? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of service, garment quantity, turnaround time, and location.
In this guide, we'll break down typical laundry service costs in London and explain what influences pricing, helping you choose the best option for your needs and budget.
Average Laundry Service Prices in London
Laundry service prices vary from company to company, but most professional providers charge within these ranges:
Wash, Dry & Fold Service
This is the most popular option for everyday laundry.
Typical cost:
Small load (4–6 kg): £12–£18
Medium load (6–8 kg): £18–£25
Large load (8–10 kg): £25–£35
The service usually includes washing, drying, folding, and packaging your clothes ready to wear.
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is generally priced per item.
Average costs include:
Shirt: £2.50–£5
Suit: £12–£20
Dress: £10–£25
Coat: £12–£30
Premium fabrics and designer garments may cost more.
Ironing Service
Many London laundry companies offer standalone ironing services.
Typical prices:
Shirts: £2–£4 each
Trousers: £3–£5 each
Full basket ironing: £15–£40 depending on volume
Bedding and Household Items
Larger household items often have separate pricing.
Average costs:
Single duvet cover set: £8–£12
Double duvet cover set: £10–£15
Duvet cleaning: £15–£40
Curtains: £20–£60 depending on size
Factors That Affect Laundry Service Costs
1. Pickup and Delivery
Many London laundry services offer free pickup and delivery, while others charge an additional fee.
Delivery charges typically range from:
Free within local service areas
£2–£10 for extended zones
Higher fees for same-day delivery
The convenience of doorstep collection often saves valuable time, making the extra cost worthwhile.
2. Express Turnaround
Need your clothes back quickly?
Many providers offer:
Same-day service
24-hour service
Priority processing
Express options usually add 20% to 50% to the standard price.
3. Laundry Volume
The more items you send, the better value you often receive.
Some companies charge:
Per kilogram
Per bag
Per item
Families and shared households often benefit from bulk pricing discounts.
4. Garment Type
Delicate fabrics, formal wear, and specialty items require extra care.
Higher-priced items typically include:
Silk garments
Wool suits
Wedding dresses
Designer clothing
Leather and suede items
These require specialized cleaning methods that increase the overall cost.
Is a Laundry Service Worth It?
For many London residents, the answer is yes.
When you consider the cost of:
Electricity
Water
Detergent
Machine maintenance
Time spent washing, drying, ironing, and folding
Professional laundry services can offer excellent value.
Busy professionals, students, parents, Airbnb hosts, and elderly residents often find that outsourcing laundry saves hours every week.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional Laundry
Let's look at a simple example.
A household doing four loads of laundry per week may spend:
Utilities: £10–£15 weekly
Detergents and fabric care products: £3–£5 weekly
Time investment: 4–6 hours per week
A professional wash-and-fold service for the same volume may cost around £25–£40 per week while eliminating the time commitment entirely.
For many people, the convenience justifies the additional expense.
How to Save Money on Laundry Services in London
If you're looking for affordable laundry care, consider these tips:
Choose Regular Service Plans
Many providers offer subscription packages with discounted rates for recurring customers.
Bundle Larger Loads
Sending one large load instead of several small loads often reduces the cost per kilogram.
Compare Pickup Areas
Some services provide free collection in specific London boroughs.
Avoid Express Services
Planning ahead can help you avoid costly same-day or emergency charges.
Look for New Customer Offers
Many laundry companies provide introductory discounts for first-time customers.
What to Look for Beyond Price
The cheapest service isn't always the best.
When choosing a laundry provider, consider:
Customer reviews
Turnaround times
Quality guarantees
Eco-friendly cleaning options
Pickup and delivery convenience
Damage protection policies
Reliable service and garment care often provide better long-term value than simply choosing the lowest price.
Laundry Service Costs for Airbnb Hosts
London Airbnb hosts frequently use professional laundry services to maintain high guest standards.
Typical costs include:
Bed linen cleaning: £8–£20 per set
Towel cleaning: £1–£3 per item
Bulk commercial packages: Custom pricing
Many providers offer scheduled collections specifically designed for short-term rental properties.
Final Thoughts
Laundry service costs in London can range from as little as £12 for a small wash-and-fold load to £40 or more for larger household laundry requirements. Pricing depends on garment type, service speed, delivery options, and overall volume.
While professional laundry services may seem like an added expense, many Londoners find the convenience, time savings, and professional results well worth the investment. Whether you're a busy professional, a student, a family, or an Airbnb host, there's likely a laundry service package that fits both your schedule and your budget.
Before booking, compare providers, check reviews, and look for transparent pricing. A reliable laundry service can make everyday life significantly easier while keeping your clothes looking their best.
